Coin of Perge under Philip II 247 - 249

Curator: Here we have a bronze coin of Perge, minted under Philip II; it is a rather weighty piece, at almost 6 grams. Editor: Immediately, the weathering catches my eye; it speaks volumes about time's passage. Curator: Indeed; coins like this offer insight into socio-economic power structures, trade routes, and even the daily life of people under Philip's rule. Editor: The patina adds to its texture. Note the circular form, how it contains the composition and guides the eye. Curator: The portrait on one side, and the figure—perhaps Artemis—on the other, allow us to speculate on Philip's intentions. What message was he trying to convey? Editor: The form of the coin itself is so self-contained. It is complete as an object, almost sculptural. Curator: It’s a small object, but pregnant with meaning about power, belief, and identity in the ancient world. Editor: And formally, it’s a beautiful example of design and compression.